Invitation to Build a Just Society and a Solid and Lasting Peace

In his first message for the World Day of Peace, celebrated on 1 January, Pope Francis has called for us all to 'build a just society and a solid and lasting peace' through 'treat[ing] each person as a true sister or brother'.

It is only in recognising our kinship with one another- what Pope Francis calls our 'fraternity'- that we lay 'the foundation and pathway of peace'. Failure to accept and care for one another as a sister or brother gives rise to 'a world marked by a “globalization of indifference” which makes us slowly inured to the suffering of others and closed in on ourselves.'

In this new year, full of opportunity and possibility, may all who encounter a member of the global Mercy family experience welcome, warmth, generosity and hospitality, contributing to 'a life filled with joy and hope'.

Messages to: Mary Reynolds rsm - Executive Director MIA